Conservation

Conservation

Providing critical habitat for fisheries, salmon, big game such as the deer and elk.

1.4 Million Acres Lands Held by the Tribes

Forests and woodlands are equivalent to approximately one-third (18.6 million) of the 57 million acres of lands held by Tribes and managed in trust by the U.S. Government. These lands are valued beyond the standing forest, and include fish, wildlife habitat, sources of food and medicine, as well as cultural ties to the land for the Yakama People.

These Native American-owned forest and woodlands provide more than $40 million in annual Tribal governmental revenue and 19,000 jobs for families and communities across Tribal Country (Tribal Forests and Forestry Background, ITC 2012).

The Yakama Nation Reservation consists of approximately 1.4 million acres in south-central Washington State, approximately 650,000 acres in forest and woodlands. These lands provide water, food, medicine, spiritual values, employment, and revenue to the Yakama Nation.

Crucial to preserving the benefits provided by these lands, is their proper care and the stability provided to local communities. To achieve this, the landscape requires consistent and effective management, access, and a commitment to facilitate the continuation of traditional ties to the land for the Yakama People in support of cultural strength and a diversity of ecosystems.